Have you thought about the MOD route?
I used to be in the RAF until I got a proper job. But one of my postings was at RAF St Athan, now DARA St Athan. It was a while ago, but they were always looking for people to work on the shop floor as a civilian craftsman.
They took butchers, bakers and candlestick makers from the Welsh valleys and turned them into aircraft fitters. Once they had enough experience a lot of them were poached by neighbouring BAMC for more dosh.
I don't know if they are looking for people, but might be another line of enquiry for you.